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Promoting SMEs key to unlock growth, employment opportunities: SAPM Haroon Akhtar

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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KARACHI, Jan 12 (APP):The Special Assistant to Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, assuring government support to the promotion of SME sector on Monday, highlighted the responsive policies and targeted facilitation to unlock growth and employment opportunities in the country.
“SMEs form the backbone of our industrial ecosystem. Supporting them through responsive policies and targeted facilitation will help unlock growth, reduce the trade deficit, and create much-needed jobs,” he said during separate visits to major auto and industrial facilities at Bin Qasim Karachi.
The SAPM, visiting Tecno Auto Glass, Aisha Steel Mills and Pak Suzuki Motor Company, inspected various sections and keenly reviewed as well as received briefings on different steps of the manufacturing process of windshields, cold rolled steels, automobile steel parts, injection molded plastic parts as well as engine and transmission assembly lines.
Around 75 companies of the auto and auto parts industry are operating in Bin Qasim and surrounding areas providing employment to almost 100,000 people and producing high quality local parts used in the automobile sector, the SAPM was informed.
Appreciating the industrial infrastructure that is contributing to the creation of highly skilled and much needed jobs in the manufacturing sector, Haroon Akhtar Khan assured the government’s support to the sector, especially by facilitating production of small cars in higher volumes targeting the middle and lower income consumers, currently using motorcycles.
The industry stakeholders pledged to further increase their localization efforts to reduce cost and transfer skilled jobs to Pakistan to create opportunities for the young population.
The CEO of SMEDA, Nadia Jahangir Seth briefed the SAPM on the contribution of SME clusters to Pakistan’s manufacturing and export sectors as well as ongoing initiatives to support SME clusters, including efforts to improve access to finance, technology upgrades, and market linkages.
The SAPM Haroon Akhtar also planted a sapling at Tecno Auto Glass, SME cluster, Bin Qasim Karachi during the visit.

LHC expresses satisfaction over action against PHA officials

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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LAHORE, Jan 12 (APP):The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Monday expressed satisfaction over action taken against Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) officials involved in illegal tree cutting.
The court directed that no tree or branch be cut in the city without prior approval from the Director General PHA.
Justice Shahid Karim heard various petitions filed by Haroon Farooq and others against ineffective measures to control smog.
During the proceedings, PHA’s counsel, Barrister Haris Azmat, submitted a report and informed the court that officers involved in cutting trees near Doctor Hospital had been suspended. According to the submitted report, PHA Project Director Javed Hamid, along with four other officers and employees, have been placed under suspension.
The court termed the action against those responsible as satisfactory and issued clear instructions that tree cutting anywhere in the city must not be carried out without the explicit permission of the DG PHA. The Member of the Environmental Commission also presented his report regarding the incident near Doctor Hospital.
Barrister Haris Azmat further apprised the court that departmental proceedings under the PEEDA Act have been initiated against the responsible officers.
Justice Shahid Karim questioned PHA’s performance, remarking that assurances are repeatedly given but violations continue to occur.
The member of the Environmental Commission informed the court that he personally inspected the site and found that branches were cut unnecessarily.
Justice Shahid Karim questioned who had authorized the cutting. PHA’s counsel claimed the branches were allegedly removed due to safety concerns, however, the court observed that no accidents had ever occurred due to such branches.
The court was told that a Grade-19 officer has been suspended, inquiries have been launched against three others.
Justice Shahid Karim appreciated the action, saying “Very good,” but emphasized the need for stricter enforcement.
The issue of a tree cut near Data Darbar also came under discussion, with PHA assuring the court that strict action would be taken against those responsible.
The court was informed that steps are being taken to have public parks adopted by affluent individuals or companies, and a meeting in this regard has been scheduled at the PHA office on Wednesday.
Justice Shahid Karim remarked that before cutting any tree or branch, authorities must conduct a thorough assessment to determine whether it can be preserved. He observed that officials involved in illegal tree cutting should be removed from service.
PHA’s counsel also briefed the court on his visit to Nasir Bagh regarding tree cutting and stated that a detailed report would be submitted on Friday.
The court adjourned further hearing of the smog mitigation case until January 16.

No room for terrorist narrative, vows Information Minister

By
Shumaila Andleeb
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ISLAMABAD, Jan 12 (APP):Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Monday reaffirmed that terrorist elements would not be allowed to advance their narrative or ideology.
Addressing the Qaumi Paigham-e-Amman Committee conference in Islamabad, he said the nation stood united in its resolve to eliminate terrorism in all its forms. He stressed that the scourge would be confronted through both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.
He stated that, under the leadership of the Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and the Field Marshal, Syed Asim Munir the nation stands united and resolute against terrorism. He added that efforts are underway to reinforce the national narrative and thwart the designs of anti-state elements.
Tarar lauded the role of religious scholars in safeguarding the country’s ideological frontiers and promoting peace. He announced that the committee would visit different parts of the country to spread Islam’s message of harmony, underscoring that terrorists have no connection with Islam, Pakistan, or humanity.
The minister said the Paigham-e-Amman Committee was an overarching body with representation from minorities, emphasizing that safeguarding minority rights was a collective responsibility. He noted that the fully empowered committee would play an effective role in countering terrorist propaganda.
Highlighting the vital role of scholars, Tarar denounced foreign-backed extremist outfits and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eradicate terrorism while promoting Islam’s message of peace.
He added that the secretariat of the National Paigham-e-Amman Committee had been formally established to support initiatives fostering harmony and stability in society.
He stated that terrorists were bound by neither religion nor nationality, adding that the committee would advance the principle that terrorism has no association with any faith. Tarar further said there was consensus across the Ummah that no jihad could be waged against the state of Pakistan.
The minister emphasized that Islam is a religion of peace and harmony, noting that the committee had been tasked with conveying this message to every household. He announced that during his upcoming visit to Peshawar, he would hold meetings with scholars representing all schools of thought.
Reaffirming the government’s determination to defeat terrorism, Tarar said militants apprehended or eliminated bore no link to Islam. He pointed out that extremist outfits including Fitna-ul-Hindustan and Fitna-ul-Khawarij were receiving foreign funding, adding that their designs were being fully exposed as they continued to target innocent civilians.
Amid the violence, Tarar reiterated his resolve to spread the message of peace across the country.

Sindh Minister condoles to Mian Tariq Manzoor Paganwala on the death of his young son

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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KARACHI, Jan 12 (APP):Sindh Provincial Minister Saeed Ghani expressed condolences to Mian Tariq Manzoor Paganwala over the passing of his young son, Advocate Hassan Tariq Manzoor.
He visited the residence of the deceased, Paganwala House, located in PECHS Society, where he participated in the Quran recitation and prayed for the high ranks of the departed soul, said a statement on Monday.
The Quran recitation and collective prayers were attended in large numbers by Mian Khalid Manzoor Paganwala, Mian Abid Manzoor Paganwala, Mian Waqar Akhtar Paganwala, other prominent figures, relatives, friends, and local residents.
It may be recalled that Advocate Hassan Tariq Manzoor passed away the previous day due to illness, and his burial took place in the Society Cemetery.

Opposition leader count fixed for Jan 14; Achakzai backed by 76 members

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jan 12 (APP):National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Monday sought submission of proposals for the nomination of the Leader of the Opposition by January 13, announcing that the count would be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday  under Rule 39 of the House procedures.
Outlining the process, the Speaker said the member with the greatest numerical strength after verification of signatures would be declared Leader of the Opposition. He added that any member not initially a signatory but present at the count and signing the proposal would also be included.
Aamir Dogar informed the House that 76 members had nominated Mahmood Khan Achakzai for the position and requested time until Tuesday to complete the procedural requirements.
Earlier, the Speaker read out the procedure following queries raised in the House after the disqualification of the previous occupant of the office. He noted that letters had been issued on November 19, December 5, December 19 and December 29, 2025 to parliamentary whip Aamir Dogar and Gohar Ali Khan, and confirmed that related cases had been withdrawn from the Peshawar High Court.
The Speaker also announced that all Members of the National Assembly must submit their annual tax returns by January 15, failing which they would be deemed suspended and not permitted to enter the House. The session was then adjourned to 11:00 AM on Tuesday.

Ex CM condemns IED attack in Tank

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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PESHAWAR, Jan 12 (APP):Former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Monday strongly condemned the IED attack on a police armored vehicle in Tank district that resulted in the martyrdom of six police personnel, including a Station House Officer (SHO).
In his condemnation statement, Gandapur expressed deep sorrow and grief over the loss of precious lives and paid rich tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the martyred officers, who embraced martyrdom while performing their duty.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for patience and strength for them in this difficult time.
He emphasized that such cowardly acts cannot demoralize the resolve of the government and security forces in maintaining peace and eliminating terrorism from the province.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he said that the sacrifices of the police and security personnel will not go in vain and that strict action will be taken against the elements involved in the attack.

Fog-Induced tripping of 500/220 kV transmission lines disrupt power supply in IESCO region

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jan 12 (APP):The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) on Monday said that dense fog in various parts of Punjab and Sindh has caused repeated tripping of 500/220 kV transmission lines, resulting in reduced power generation and a shortfall in electricity supply to the IESCO region.
According to an IESCO spokesperson, fog-related tripping of high-voltage transmission lines has been occurring on a daily basis, adversely affecting the national power system and leading to a reduced allocation of electricity quota for IESCO as compared to demand.
He said that due to the widening gap between electricity demand and supply, load management is being carried out in different areas of the IESCO region strictly in accordance with the prevailing situation.
The spokesperson said IESCO management was fully aware of the inconvenience being faced by consumers due to power outages and extended sincere apologies to valued customers, while seeking their cooperation during this difficult period.
He added that IESCO authorities were in close coordination with the relevant departments and assured consumers that as soon as electricity quota in line with demand becomes available, the ongoing load management would be withdrawn and uninterrupted power supply restored.
For further information, consumers may contact the numbers printed on their electricity bills or call on Helpline number 118.

Indonesian delegation, Raza Hayat Harraj discuss bilateral ties

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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ISLAMABAD, Jan 12 (APP):A high level defence delegation headed by Lt Gen (Retd) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Minister of Defence, Indonesia held a meeting with Federal Minister for Defence Production, Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj and high officials of MoDP at Rawalpindi on Monday.
During the meeting, the federal minister stated that Pakistan considers Indonesia a close friend and a brotherly Muslim Nation, said a press release issued here.
He further said that the recent significant interactions between the two countries has set pace for a high yielding relationship. He also highlighted that Pakistan has immense potential in the field of defence production and expressed concurrence for establishment of Joint Working Groups for Defence Production cooperation amongst entities of both the countries.
Lt Gen (Retd) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has shown keen interest in expediting the Joint Working Groups and stressed that it will open doors for future collaboration and help in exploring and benefiting from each other’s capabilities.
Raza Harraj stated that the bilateral relationship between the two countries is characterized by feelings of mutual trust, respect and goodwill towards each other. He also extended invitation to the Indonesian Authorities to actively participate in the Defence Exhibition IDEAS-2026 to explore defence collaboration.
Lt Gen (Retd) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin on behalf of the Indonesian delegation thanked Minister for Defence Production for extending warm hospitality and said that Pakistan is a very important country with rich culture, working democracy and vibrant economy.
Both sides expressed the hope that the brotherly relationship is translated into long term relationship based on mutual trust and respect.

Rubina Khalid visits Lyari, announces expansion of social protection and skill programs

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jan 12 (APP):Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid, visited Lyari on Monday and held a meeting with Senator Yousaf Baloch, Sindh Government Spokesperson MPA Sadia Javed, MPA Shazia Karim Sanghar, and other local dignitaries at Baloch Hall.
Senator Rubina Khalid was accorded a warm welcome upon her arrival. Addressing the gathering, she said the government has introduced a new transparent and secure payment mechanism under BISP in the form of Social Protection Wallets to ensure that women receive financial assistance directly, fully, and with dignity.
Under this initiative, free SIMs are being provided to women beneficiaries.
She clarified that free SIMs will only be issued through BISP offices or government-designated campsites, and women must bring their own mobile phones.
She strictly warned beneficiaries to immediately lodge complaints if anyone demands money or attempts to make illegal deductions.
Highlighting the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Senator Rubina Khalid said she was a brave leader who never bowed before oppression. She urged women to show the same courage and refuse any illegal demands.
The BISP Chairperson emphasized the importance of completing all required documentation for registration.
She announced that mobile registration vans have been launched to conduct on-the-spot registrations in various localities, reducing the need for women to travel to distant offices.
She further informed that the Benazir Hunarmand Programme has also been launched, enabling women, their husbands, and children to acquire vocational skills. “Skill is your asset,” she said, quoting Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, adding that the initiative aims to promote self-reliance, reduce unemployment, and provide sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Senator Rubina Khalid stated that, in line with the vision of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and under the guidance of Faryal Talpur, BISP is ensuring the delivery of full entitlements to women beneficiaries with respect and dignity. She announced that the current BISP instalment of Rs. 13,500 will soon be increased to Rs. 14,500.
She also shared that under the Taleemi Wazaif Programme, financial assistance is being provided to children from primary to Grade 12, while special initiatives are underway to support the health and nutrition of pregnant women and children up to two years of age.
The Chairperson clarified that all official BISP messages are sent only through 8171, and beneficiaries should not trust messages from any other number. She urged women to report any cases of fraud, illegal demands, or fake messages without delay.
In her concluding remarks, Senator Rubina Khalid said women are aware and empowered and must actively safeguard their rights.
She added that unnecessary filters imposed in the past, which had excluded deserving families, have now been removed to ensure wider inclusion of eligible households in the Benazir Income Support Programme.

Kachehri Chowk remodeling project 44% complete, officials say

By
Qadir Rajpoot
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0
RAWALPINDI, Jan 12 (APP):The Kachehri Chowk Remodelling Project in Rawalpindi has reached 44 percent completion, officials told Commissioner Rawalpindi Engineer Aamir Khattak during an on-site inspection on Monday.
Officers of the relevant departments and the project team briefed the commissioner on overall progress. Construction at Iftikhar Janjua Chowk is 30 percent complete, at Kachehri Chowk 35 percent, and at the Jinnah Park underpass 35 percent, while retaining wall work has reached 91 percent and utility ducts 44 percent completion.
Engineer Khattak expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of the work and directed that all construction activities adhere to the approved design and timeline. He called for daily monitoring, prompt identification of gaps, and immediate corrective action.
He stressed strict implementation of the traffic management plan, clear alternative routes and timely public awareness to minimise inconvenience. High-quality materials must be used for underground ducts, drainage and retaining walls, he added, warning that negligence would not be tolerated.
Regarding safety, he instructed the provision of protective equipment for workers, installation of signboards and barriers, and adherence to all necessary precautions. Cleanliness and discipline at the site, including prompt debris removal and maintenance of surrounding roads, were also emphasised.
Engineer Khattak directed departments to coordinate effectively and ensure the timely relocation and restoration of all utility services. He said the completed project would improve traffic flow, save citizens’ time, and transform Kachehri Chowk into a modern, safe, and aesthetically pleasing interchange, contributing to Rawalpindi’s overall development.
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